Russell Westbrook took charge in the Washington Wizards overtime win over the New Orleans Pelicans. He scored 10 of the Wizards 12 points in OT. However, center Daniel Gafford controlled the game on the defensive end, including one massive stuff at the rim of Zion Williamson.
The block was huge for the Wizards, which led to a Westbrook transition layup. Williamson has bullied his way through the league in his second season in the NBA.
Overpowering defenders and dunking on them have become the norm for Williamson. Yet, Gafford was having none of it. Since being acquired in a trade for the Wizards, Gafford has flashed his potential as a rim protecting big. Williamson was held to 21 points below his season average of 26.7 in large due to Gafford’s presence in the middle.
In Friday’s 117-115 win, Gafford finished with 18 points, seven rebounds and four blocks. While Bradley Beal and Westbrook lead Washington on the offensive end, Gafford is settling in his role anchoring the Wizards defense.
